Proposal would create tax holiday for guns and hunting gear

Lawmakers like Representative Jeff Smith are mulling over a Second Amendment sales tax holiday.

"Maybe more symbolism than anything to show Mississippi obviously is a hunter and gun-friendly state," explained Smith who authored the bill.

Items like guns, ammo, ATVs and boats would all be eligible for the tax free days. Outdoor enthusiasts say they're all in.

"I think it's a great idea," said outdoorsman John Kitchens. "I think it's an act that will support the second amendment. And anything that supports the second amendment, I'm for it and all my friends are for it."

Representative Bobby Moak is critical of the bill.

"The gun issue in and of itself is fine," said Moak. "What's happened is the load up issues that are on it. All the big ticket items that everybody has Christmas treed this thing up with. That's the problem."

Still, not all taxpayers enjoy hunting and fishing. Some folks say this idea is too narrow.

"I think if you're going to give that kind of discount or it's going to cost much needed funds it would be better to focus in an area where we need to improve on," described Ruth Pullen. "Like an area that would benefit maybe people who are having a hard time."

Mississippi has a tax free holiday weekend in July. It only applies to clothes and shoes under $100.

"Let's open it up a little bit," said Moak. "I mean, computers are a necessary everyday activity which are a couple hundred bucks. But if you're going to open up those things let's open up those things for the school. Something that's going to help families."

This bill has passed the House Ways and Means Committee. It still has a long way to go before it's law. If that happens, the holiday would be the first Saturday and Sunday in September.